Odisha Government School Protest

The recent incident in Odisha's Nabrangpur has brought attention to the poor conditions of government schools and hostels. Over 180 students of Sanatemera High School walked 12 kms home as a protest against inadequate basic amenities and facilities, poor food quality, and hostel conditions.

Odisha Government School Protest: Overview

Hostel Conditions and Student Protest

The students claimed that the school and government-run hostel do not have basic facilities and bad quality food is being served to them. There is not enough accommodation, and many students are cramped up in small spaces, forcing them to live in overcrowded conditions. Locals have backed the students, claiming that the boundary walls of the hostel are damaged, and there are no basic facilities such as a proper washroom.

Government Response and NITI Ayog Report

The headmistress, Rajalakshmi Maharana, has dismissed the allegations, stating that students are concerned only about the limited space available in the hostel. She assured that the school administration will take this matter seriously and put an effort to bring the students back to the school. A recent NITI Ayog report revealed that nearly 94,000 government schools ceased operations between 2014-15 and 2024-25, while enrolment in government schools dropped to 49.24%.